As the world continues to evolve, so too do the paths that young people take when considering their future careers. While traditionally male-dominated fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) have long been viewed as the go-to options for young men, more and more male students are exploring nontraditional career paths. For students like Lucien Leanna, a senior at Doherty Memorial High School, pursuing the arts and humanities has become a way to break free from societal expectations and embrace their true passions.
Discovering a Passion for Arts and Humanities
Lucien’s journey into the arts and humanities wasn’t one he initially anticipated. In fact, he didn’t always know that he wanted to follow this path. “I didn’t always know I wanted to pursue these fields,” Lucien shares. “However, I began to grow interested in them during COVID.” For Lucien, the arts and humanities became a way to not only understand others but also to express himself. “Understanding people is incredibly important to living a content, peaceful life,” he says, “and these fields allow me to express myself and understand others.”
Among the various subjects Lucien has explored, philosophy stands out as particularly inspiring. “Philosophy forms the basis for thought and understanding,” he explains, “and it can influence how you interact with other subjects.” This deeper level of thinking sparked a desire to explore other areas in the arts and humanities, all of which allowed Lucien to understand the world and people around him more fully.
Breaking Stereotypes and Navigating Pressure
As a male student in fields that are often seen as “nontraditional,” Lucien has faced his share of challenges. Society often envisions career paths in the arts and humanities as feminine or impractical for men, and Lucien has had to navigate that pressure. “In some areas, I have felt a bit standoffish at first,” he admits. “However, if it’s something I genuinely have an interest in, I push myself to break those norms. People’s opinions shouldn’t be the main force guiding my judgment; that force should come from within.”
Lucien also reflects on the stereotypes that often surround men in creative fields. “I feel that lots of guys in these fields are seen as aimless, idealistic, or dreamers,” he observes. “While there may be some truth to these statements, it really depends on the person and whether or not they can ground themselves in reality while keeping up optimism and hope.” Despite facing occasional judgment or lack of understanding from others, Lucien continues to remain firm in his belief that his chosen path is the right one for him.
Career Aspirations and Breaking Down Barriers
Looking to the future, Lucien is unsure of the specific career he will pursue but knows he wants to stay connected to the creative industries. Some of his career interests include interior design, videography, and directing—fields that align with his love for creativity and expression. “I’ve had a lot of different ideas, but I don’t have a specific one,” he says. “I envision combining my passions in the arts with a career that allows me to continue exploring my creative side.”
Lucien also recognizes that men face unique challenges when entering creative professions, including internal judgment and doubts about the viability of pursuing such fields. “Two of the challenges men may face are internal judgment and people doubting the viability of pursuing these fields,” Lucien shares. “These barriers can be broken by recognizing your own humanity and acknowledging that these fields may be harder to find success in, but not allowing that to stop you from pursuing them.”
The stigma that creative fields are less “practical” or financially stable is another common concern. However, Lucien argues that passion should outweigh such worries. “These fields may not be as practical, and income may not be as stable as it is in other fields,” he explains. “But keeping that in mind shouldn’t stop you from working on these things. It’s important to show people what you have to offer in order to make your career more secure.”
Overcoming Societal Expectations
Lucien also feels that societal pressures often push men toward more “masculine” career paths, leaving little room for exploration in fields like the arts and humanities. He believes that young men should be further exposed to creative fields, allowing those with an interest to feel more comfortable pursuing them. “Men are mainly pushed to more masculine career paths,” Lucien reflects. “It’s important that more men are exposed to these career paths that aren’t as masculine, so they feel more comfortable pursuing these options.”
Lucien encourages other young men to follow their passions regardless of societal expectations or stereotypes. “Live your life for yourself,” he advises. “Don’t allow failure to discourage you. Be realistic with your circumstances, but always be open and honest with yourself. When it comes to norms, break them despite any worries you may have, because they’re all subjective in the end.”
A Call for Change and Growth
Looking ahead, Lucien hopes to see a shift in the way schools, media, and society encourage boys to engage with creative subjects. “It would be nice if schools disregarded gender norms when it comes to these topics,” he says. “Be less judgmental about how an individual may go about art because art is all about perspectives. Not everyone shares the same perspective, and that should be celebrated.”
Lucien’s journey serves as an inspiration to other young men who might be hesitant to pursue nontraditional fields due to fear of judgment. “I hope my journey will inspire others to recognize that as long as you’re open to growth, there’s no problem with being who you are,” he says.
Lucien’s message is clear: pursue your passions, break down barriers, and don’t let societal norms define your future. Whether through philosophy, videography, or directing, Lucien is living proof that there’s no one-size-fits-all career path. His story serves as a powerful reminder that young men should feel empowered to explore their creative sides, regardless of what others might say or expect.
Lucien Leanna is not just a senior at Doherty Memorial High School; he is a role model for breaking free from stereotypes and embracing one’s true self. Known for his appearances on DTV and his amazing film work, Lucien is leading the way for other young men to follow their passions and pursue careers in the arts and humanities.
